Is The Camino Calling You?

For over a thousand years, the Camino de Santiago has called pilgrims to walk its sacred paths. Today, we invite you to join Gabriel Gonsalves and an intimate group of seven pilgrims on the Portuguese Coastal Route’s Spiritual Variant – a journey that combines coastal beauty, ancient paths, and profound tradition.

This carefully crafted 10-day pilgrimage from May 12th to the 21st offers a unique blend of traditional walking pilgrimage with thoughtful modern comforts. You’ll experience the freedom of carrying just a day pack while our support vehicle transfers your luggage, allowing you to focus fully on your journey.

Who is this Pilgrimage For?

This pilgrimage is perfect for travelers who:

• Seek spiritual connection and time for personal reflection
• Want to experience the Camino’s traditions with modern comforts
• Enjoy walking and cultural immersion
• Are drawn to both solitude and meaningful community
• Welcome a blend of guided support and independent exploration
• Appreciate comfortable lodging after a day’s walk

No previous pilgrimage experience needed—just an open heart and willing spirit. Our small group of 7 ensures personal attention while maintaining the intimate nature of pilgrimage.

Route Highlights

Our path unfolds through the heart of Galicia, where wild hydrangeas bloom against ancient stone walls and eucalyptus forests line your way. Each day reveals new wonders:

• Medieval bridges still bearing the marks of centuries of pilgrim footsteps
• Traditional fishing villages with distinctive stone granaries (hórreos)
• The stunning “Ruta da Pedra e da Auga” with its historic water mills
• Rolling green hills covered with Albariño grape vineyards
• The world’s only maritime Via Crucis in the Arousa estuary
• Ancient monasteries and churches marking the way

Daily Stages

12/05 Travel from Madrid to Baiona
Morning departure from Madrid to Baiona (approximately 7-8 hours journey). Arrival in Baiona in the late afternoon, allowing time to explore this historic maritime town with its medieval fortress, Monterreal Castle, where our spiritual journey begins.

13/05 Stage 1 – Baiona to Vigo (25 km)
Follow the coastline of southern Galicia, with stunning views of the Cíes Islands. Pass through traditional fishing villages before reaching the bustling port of Vigo.

14/05 Stage 2 – Vigo to Redondela (18 km)
A gentler day through Vigo’s maritime quarter before ascending to paths offering panoramic views of the Vigo estuary.

15/05 Stage 3 – Redondela to Pontevedra (17.4 km)
Walk ancient stone paths through woodland and coastal villages, ending in historic Pontevedra where the Spiritual Variant begins.

16/05 Stage 4 – Pontevedra to Armenteira (23.2 km)
Visit the enchanting fishing village of Combarro with its waterfront granaries before climbing to the peaceful 12th-century Monastery of Armenteira.

17/05 Stage 5 – Armenteira to Vilanova de Arousa (22.7 km)
Experience the beautiful “Ruta da Pedra e da Auga,” following the Armenteira river past ancient water mills through dense woodland before descending through wine country.

18/05 Stage 6 – Vilanova de Arousa to Padrón (30.2 km)
Cross the Arousa estuary by boat, following the route of St. James’ remains, passing the unique stone crosses of the maritime Via Crucis.

19/05 Stage 7 – Padrón to Santiago de Compostela (24.3 km)
Your final walking day brings you to Santiago, where the cathedral spires guide you home.

20/05 Full Day in Santiago de Compostela
Explore the magnificent cathedral, attend the Pilgrim’s Mass, receive your Compostela certificate, and celebrate your journey’s completion.

21/05 Departure Day
After breakfast, continue to your next destination or return home, carrying your Camino memories with you.

The Pilgrim Experience

Life on the Camino offers a beautiful simplicity that contrasts with our normal routines. Each day brings its own rhythm:

Morning Rituals:

• Breakfast with your favorite hot beverage
• Flexible departure times to walk at your preferred pace
• Daily route briefing and historical context

Along the Way:

• Historic churches and monasteries
• Welcoming cafes and rest stops
• Support vehicle and drive always available
• Fellow pilgrims sharing the path

Evening Comforts:

• Carefully selected comfortable accommodations
• Time to explore each town
• Optional group dinners
• Reflection and rest

Walking in Tradition

Your Credencial del Peregrino (Pilgrim’s Passport) collects stamps along the way, marking your progress and qualifying you for the official Compostela certificate in Santiago. This cherished document, written in Latin, has been awarded to pilgrims for centuries.

Your Journey Includes

• Transport from Madrid to Baiona and back to Madrid
• 9 nights’ carefully selected accommodation
• Daily breakfast with fresh juice and pastries
• Support vehicle and driver for luggage transfers
• Pilgrim’s Passport & Compostela certificate
• Guidance from spiritual teacher Gabriel Gonsalves
• Boat journey across the Arousa estuary
• Travel insurance
• Detailed cultural and historical information

Not included: Lunches, other dinners, flights, tips

Pricing & Reservations

Investment:

EUR 1,750 – Shared double room
EUR 1,960 – Private room

Your investment includes all elements needed for a meaningful pilgrimage experience, combining traditional walking with modern comforts.

Payment Terms:

• 50% deposit to reserve your spot
• Balance due by March 1st, 2025

Ready to Begin?

If you feel called to join this transformative journey, contact Gabriel Gonsalves to discuss whether this pilgrimage is right for you:

Gabriel Gonsalves
Tel: +34 634 266 440
Email: gabriel@gabrielgonsalves.com

We warmly invite you to join us on this pilgrimage of the heart!